Edited By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:
A significant event occurred in Ipakodo Kingdom, an ancient community within the Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area, as the Sekumade of Ipakodo, Oba Basiru Aremu Sotonwa, FNSE, officially laid the foundation for a new ultra-modern Oba Sekumade Palace yesterday, Saturday, January 11th, 2025 with the presence of stakeholders and potential dignitaries. This construction project, valued at N200 million Naira, was entirely financed by the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL), a reputable organization dedicated to peace, security, and socio-economic development in the Ikorodu Division, chaired by High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, SAN Odofin of Ikorodu, Chairman of Multichoice Nigeria Lmt.
The foundation-laying ceremony was honoured by the presence of heads and representatives from all five ruling houses of the Ipakodo Kingdom, alongside traditional chiefs, Baales, and honorary chiefs. Their participation underscored a collective celebration of this historic milestone during Oba Sotonwa’s reign.
Oba Sotonwa recounted prior solicitations to the Lagos State government to construct a new palace in his welcome address. However, the request was understandably declined due to the government’s extensive list of ongoing projects, including the planned construction of a palace in Ikeja. In light of this, Oba Sotonwa approached the Chairman of IDPIL, High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, who responded affirmatively to the initiative. The Monarch expressed profound gratitude to IDPIL for undertaking the project, emphasizing the necessity for a palace that provides adequate residential accommodation for the Royal Father.
He pronounced, “It is important to acknowledge that what we have here is not truly a palace. We have merely managed this current structure.” He stressed the urgent need for a new and enhanced palace that befits the dignity of a king.
The ceremony was further graced by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, and representatives from the various ruling houses, which include Osomeku, Saogun, Odubi, Mbashe, and Tikare.
Oba Sotonwa highlighted the intention behind inviting the representatives, indicating that it served both historical documentation and the purpose of fostering a sense of inclusion, affirming that the palace project constitutes a collective heritage of the Ipakodo people.
The Monarch clarified that, while five ruling houses are entitled to the Sekumade stool, the new palace will be the property of the entire community, thus reinforcing his commitment to the populace of Ipakodo. Otunba Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru, the Executive Secretary of IDPIL, conveyed the organization’s high regard for the Sekumade and acknowledged the Monarch’s substantial contributions to the development of the Ikorodu Division during his tenure with the Lagos State Government.
He praised Oba Sotonwa for his dedication and loyalty to his community. Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olanrewaju commended IDPIL for its numerous developmental initiatives across the Ikorodu Division, highlighting the importance of partnership in progress between the organization and the local council. Similarly, Prince Ganiyu Olukayode Saka, Aremo of Ipakodo Kingdom, extended his appreciation to IDPIL on behalf of the ruling houses and the citizens of Ipakodo.
The event concluded with widespread recognition of IDPIL’s positive impact throughout the division.
LaRoyal Global CommunityNews:
2025 (c) Edition.
(c) Ikorodu Oga (Online) Community Radio
